DEAN GEMMELL NAMED CEO OF USA CURLING
Photo by Bob Weder.
[EAGAN, MN, May 2nd, 2023] — Following a weekend meeting, the Board of Directors of USA Curling has named Dean Gemmell as the new CEO of USA Curling. He had served as the USA Curling Interim CEO since November 1st.
“Over the last six months, Dean Gemmell has exceeded expectations in his performance as Interim CEO” noted Bret Jackson, Chair of the USA Curling Board. “His passion and energy for curling has no bounds. But beyond that, Dean has offered a vision for the organization that is member-centric and prioritizes growing and improving our game.”
Over the last six months, Gemmell, USA Curling staff, the Board of Directors, and volunteer Working Groups have worked to improve communications, expand member services and benefits, improve Athlete Health & Safety protocols, and produce first-rate championship events. Considerable work has also been done by the Governance 4.0 Ad Hoc Committee, as the organization works toward a new membership model and governance structure.
"The Board went through an extensive hiring process and considered dozens of highly qualified candidates including three C-Level finalists” said Colin Hufman, Vice Chair of the Board. “Dean stood above them all and we are proud to unanimously select him as our Chief Executive Officer."
Prior to stepping into the Interim CEO role, Gemmell had worked for USA Curling as the Director of Development since May of 2021. A 2012 USA Curling Men’s National Champion with Team McCormick and 2013 Olympic Trials competitor, Gemmell was elected by his athlete peers to the Athletes Advisory Council (AAC) in 2010, and later to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee AAC. While on the AAC, he also served as an Athlete Representative on the USA Curling Board of Directors.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Interim CEO these last six months, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the talented people in this organization and the curling community,” Gemmell said. “The sport has been central to my life, and I believe there are great things ahead for it.”
Previously, Gemmell had a successful career in marketing and advertising, serving as an agency owner, creative director, copywriter, and consultant. He also hosted The Curling Show podcast from 2005 to 2017, has done broadcast work for USA Curling and the World Curling Federation, co-authored a book on curling fitness with two-time Olympic Gold Medalist John Morris, and has led skills and instruction clinics across the country.
USA Curling is sponsored by Columbia Sportswear, Twin Cities Orthopedics, Training HAUS, Toyota, ISS (Ice, Sports & Solar), Rock Solid Productions, and Laurie Artiss. USA Curling, as the National Governing Body for the sport in the United States, is also supported by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee.
